Fitzpatrick wasn't at the level of fellow rookie defensive back Derwin James, but he was still effective in a variety of roles for Miami's defense, racking up 80 tackles, nine passes defended and two interceptions. Gesicki wasn't quite the weapon we expected as a rookie but has room to improve. Baker was a solid addition at linebacker opposite fellow Buckeye Raekwon McMillan, logging 79 tackles, three passes defended and one interception. Smythe wasn't much of a statistical factor (six catches for 50 yards) in a crowded tight end group. Ballage was buried at running back behind Frank Gore and Kenyan Drake, but exploded for 123 yards and a touchdown in Week 15 in his lone legitimate opportunity up to that point. He stands as a contender for the starting job in 2019. Armstrong is a developmental prospect. Poling was the lone Miami draft pick to not make the final 53-man roster, but he was added to the practice squad. Sanders was a welcome addition at kicker, making 90 percent of his field goal attempts and 35 of 36 extra-point attempts in his first season. In all, the Dolphins landed three immediate contributors in Fitzpatrick, Baker and Sanders, and could see that number rise to five depending on the play of Ballage and Gesicki.

Combine/free agency focus: Cameron Wake is going to be a free agent, and at 37 years old, he isn't exactly a candidate for a new deal, save for a short-term contract. It's time the Dolphins find their next edge rusher. Miami also needs to re-sign Ja'Wuan James to keep the line intact. Might the Dolphins take another crack at finding a No. 1 receiver after DeVante Parker didn't pan out?